Major Arcana 5

For some reason the energy levels and health levels have been very low, and so no posts for quite a while!

And it's strange, because the next card in the major arcana is the Hierophant - the man who stands between the world of matter and that of the spirit.

Ah well, read all about it for yourself.

5 Hierophant: Desmond Tutu

Archetype and divinatory meaning: The hierophant represents commitment, stability, captivity, servitude, marriage and alliance. It is a reminder of the importance of making commitments and being true to such commitments. In divination this card warns the enquirer about the need to recommit to either a relationship or a plan, or warns of impending commitments or debts that will have to be honored.

Image: Bishop Tutu is shown in the purple robes of the arch-bishop, smiling his characteristic smile of love and goodwill. He is surrounded by the blue sky of Africa and a halo of white representing purity.

Origin: Desmond Tutu is a living legend, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, one-time archbishop of Cape Town and fearless fighter for justice. He is also a raconteur of note, a man who delights in life and lives it fully while being absolutely committed to the ideals of the spiritual life.

His compassion and empathy make him a popular man, but one who never hesitates to do what is right and to say what may be unpopular. He fought against apartheid from the deep belief and spiritual wisdom he displays. He has been honored with numerous awards for his work as an ambassador of healing and forgiveness.

His chairmanship of the Council for Peace and Reconciliation was humble yet clear and I would refer the interested reader to accounts such as Antjie Krog’s work, The Country of my Skull. In his life and his work as spiritual leader in the church, Bishop Tutu has exemplified a life lived in service of others and commitment to high ideals.